How Car Accidents Can Impact Mental Health

by Micaela Allen
December 10th, 2015

0 Comments

|Share on

It is important to dispel the misconceptions surrounding mental illnesses. Stigmas only hurt you in the long run and those you love. They can delay treatment which may simple exacerbate things, as opposed to help thing out.

Car accidents are certainly frightening and something we all try to avoid as much as possible. Taking precautions such as eliminating distractions, staying alert while driving at night especially, watching your speed, and using your seat belt can all aid in the prevention of accidents. Sometimes, however, suddenly, and without warning, things can fly out of control. It’s completely normal but still not something we would ever wish for ourselves or anyone else. The feeling of helplessness can be overwhelming and the effects from such an event can stay with you long after the incident itself took place.

Some may think that accidents that result in severe physical harm to either person cause the most amount of long-lasting damage, but studies have shown that those who incur less injuries are those who are more likely to experience PTSD, depression, anxiety, and other mental illnesses. In a lot of the cases, the passenger, not the driver, is the one most at risk. Persistent nightmares or dreams about the accident that last longer than a week or two are also telltale signs of something to see a psychiatrist about.

That is a key factor to be aware of post-accident, how long you feel any inklings of anxiety, fear, depression etc. It is entirely normal and almost expected to experience these effects afterwards. If it’s only been a week or so, then that is no serious effect to be concerned over. It is still a concern but not one that needs the attention of a doctor at that moment. This persistence is the deciding factor between a short-term side-effect and one that can be debilitating for longer periods of time.

These potential mental illnesses are just as serious as the physical ones you will hopefully never have to experience. They can stay with you for months and sometimes even years, after the wreckage has been cleared, and the wounds healed. With the stigma around mental illness in today’s society, it is important to note that these mental illness is real and can significantly impact your life, in most cases, they won’t just go away. It often takes treatment, therapy, and more specifics that you should discuss with your doctor to help ease and recover from its effects.

However, at times it may seem that your life may never return to normal, and you’ll be forever stuck in limbo, reliving the accident, feeling its aftermath strike when you expect and least expect it to. During these moments, a psychiatrist is the best person to talk to and seek advice from. While friends and family may want to help, some things are best left to a professional. Friends and family can still be there in support as a shoulder to lean on, arms to find comfort in, or laughter to tease your lips into a smile. They can do all of that and be the rock, but your main tool in your journey of recovery should be a trained and licensed therapist. Only they have to professional tools, and knowledge to help you out during such trying times.

It is important to dispel the misconceptions surrounding mental illnesses. Stigmas only hurt you in the long run and those you love. They can delay treatment which may simple exacerbate things, as opposed to help thing out. Keeping informed is the best way to fight trauma and stay safe remember, sharing the knowledge is the greatest defense in protecting those you love and care about.

Additionally, remember the importance of having car insurance cannot be stressed enough. The right coverage can help you with the financial burden of medical treatment, rehab, vehicle damage, as well as personal and property damages that may have occurred. Staying insured is a security blanket you want and need. While it may appear expensive and overwhelming, Ensurify is here to simplify the process and provide you with deals that will be there for you in the event that you experience an accident and its powerful after-effects.